Pediatric neurologist as consultant in evaluation of syncope in infants and children: when to refer

Abstract

The features and incidence of syncope in pediatric patients are different from those in adults. While serious medical problems may underlie the problem in children and adolescents, they tend to be less frequent, both in absolute numbers and in percentages of involved patients. This article introduces a less rigid classification compared to more classical classifications. It is the author's hope that this classification system may help define the individual in need of further, more detailed neurological evaluation and possible consultation. The importance of the history and examination in this evaluation will be emphasized.